The Well Mind welcomes Luke Italiano to the podcast in the episode. He is a pastor, writer, husband, and father. He also lives with the burden of depression. The National Institute of Mental Health reports depression as one of the most common mental health issues in the US. An estimated 17.3 million Americans were experiencing a major depressive disorder prior to the pandemic. Emerging research indicates this number is now significantly higher. Luke shares about the fear that consumed him and held him back from facing the darkness. He describes the path he walked to be real and honest with people that has now become what Luke refers to as his “mission to be transparent.” Luke lives out this mission throughout the episode and offers a rich well of thought provoking insights and stories of his experiences. He emphasizes how deep connections are often born out of a willingness to be vulnerable. Luke offers hope and encouragement through his words, wisdom, and lived experiences. References from Episode 7 Bread for Beggars: https://www.breadforbeggars.com/ Luke’s Blog on Depression: https://www.breadforbeggars.com/2019/01/depression-has-me/ The Path of Broken Kings: https://www.breadforbeggars.com/2020/09/the-first-step/ National Mental Health Information: https://www.mhanational.org/issues/state-mental-health-america Mic Check Video Podcast: https://mikewestendorf.com/podcast I Trust When Dark My Road: https://www.lcms.org/document.fdoc?src=lcm&id=721 When Darkness Seems My Closest Friend: https://g.co/kgs/SuQhnL Courage, My Heart: Letters To A Weary World: https://g.co/kgs/hi5Wwb
